Diversity/Representation in The Artistic ProcessEthnicity

Special Guest Moderator: Ariel Estrada

TOPICS To be Conversed:

Who are you? What do you do? What do you want to take away from this experience?

How do we define diversity / equity / inclusion? What does diversity actually look like on stage?

What are some positive examples of racially inclusive theater? Are there specific actors or writers who consistently nail it?

Which is more impactful: producing plays about diverse communities or casting roles more diversely?

What are stereotypes? When is it justified to use them, if ever?

How do we get actors of color to show up to calls that are not traditionally thought of as their type? How do we get theaters to cast outside of their comfort zone?

Who should have the final say in casting when diversity is involved? Playwright? Director? Producer?

If you're white, then what should the role/responsibility be, if any, in working towards more racially diverse theater? Where is the balance between not doing enough and taking over the cause?

What can we do, as an artistic community, to promote inclusion from the earliest stages of development that can influence professional levels?

This is our chance to talk with each other about topics that we as artists, creatives and humans need to have. The key is we talk to and with each other. There is no panel or special guest that is smarter on a topic. We are the collective smarter panel.